Injured Bald Eagle Rescued From Hudson River Ice

Authorities coordinate rescue and transport for treatment of the bird near George Washington Bridge

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:36pm

Environmental Conservation Officers responded to the Hudson River beneath the George Washington Bridge in New York after an injured bald eagle was recovered from a sheet of ice. The NYPD safely captured the eagle and transferred it to The Raptor Trust for treatment, where it remains in guarded condition.

Why it matters

Bald eagle populations have rebounded significantly in New York and along the Hudson River in recent decades, but the birds can face risks from winter conditions as they hunt and rest near open water. This rescue highlights the ongoing efforts to protect and care for these iconic American birds.

The details

On February 17, ECOs Ableson and Baldwin responded to a call from the NYPD Harbor Unit about the injured eagle on the ice. The NYPD safely captured the bird, wrapped it in a blanket, and transported it to a nearby pier where it was transferred to an animal carrier and taken to The Raptor Trust for treatment.

  • On February 17, ECOs responded to the call about the injured eagle.
  • The eagle remains in guarded condition and continues to receive care at The Raptor Trust.

The players

Environmental Conservation Officers (ECOs) Ableson and Baldwin

ECOs who responded to the call about the injured eagle and coordinated the rescue and transport to The Raptor Trust.

The Raptor Trust

A wildlife rehabilitation facility where the injured eagle was taken for treatment.

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What’s next

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will continue to monitor the eagle's condition and recovery at The Raptor Trust.

The takeaway

This rescue operation highlights the ongoing efforts to protect and care for bald eagles, an iconic American species that has made a remarkable comeback in New York and along the Hudson River in recent decades.